Source: Daily_Mail
Gary McAllister: We won't see the best of Stephen Ireland until he's fit
[LNB]Caretaker manager Gary McAllister admits Aston Villamidfielder Stephen Ireland has to gain full fitness before his 'realtalent' can blossom.[LNB]Ireland is returning to Villa to undergo rehabilitation workafter his loan spell at Newcastle was cut short by injury setbacks.[LNB]It was a similar scenario during the first half of thecampaign after Ireland moved to Villa from Manchester City as part of the dealwhich saw James Milner head in the opposite direction.[LNB] Cut short: Stephen Ireland has returned to Aston Villa for treatment after his disastrous loan spell at Newcastle[LNB]McAllister, who is continuing to deputise while managerGerard Houllier recovers from a heart problem, said: 'Stephen is an AstonVilla player. He's our responsibility. When he reports back, he needs to be assessed by themedical people here and then be set a programme to get fit. He has had all these problems for a long timenow.'[LNB]When asked if Ireland will still be at Villa next season,McAllister said: 'He went on loan, it's not worked. He's had problems up at Newcastle as well, a number ofinjuries as well, groin, hamstring, ankle, he's not had much luck. There is no doubt he is a talented player but he's gotto get fit before we see the real Stephen Ireland.'[LNB] Plans in place to move forward despite Houllier's absence, says McAllister Walk away, Gerard: Medic warns Villa boss Houllier to quit after latest heart scare ASTON VILLA FC
